Pirates of Emerson return to the "Haunting Fields" of Fremont and will pillage Santa Cruz Boardwalk as well

The faint melody that haunts dark and scary places throughout the year is growing louder. For the past 15 years, a group of wicked, dastardly and thoroughly entertaining scalawags of the seas have inhabited Tri-City environs. Hidden in dark corners most of the year, they emerge on occasion to let the decent folk of our area know that they exist, survive and even thrive, waiting for the shroud of night; emerging to scare those who dare invade their turf. As Halloween, the ultimate night of ghosts, goblins and things that go bump in the night nears, these pirates become more active and brave souls actually visit their home ground.

Emboldened by their successful conquest of Fremont, these unruly buccaneers have claimed a beachhead at the Boardwalk of Santa Cruz as well. Who knows what to expect from pirates at any time, but this year, they will be especially frightful now that they have claimed more territory. Those who decide to challenge the exclusive haunts of these ethereal creatures should settle all their worldly affairs prior to this ultimate adventure and leave the little ones in the care of worthy successors. This is not for the faint at heart and is typically listed as one of the top national attractions for Halloween frivolity - although some who have survived their first visit need extensive coaxing to test fate and return.

Now open, Fremont's "Haunting Fields," located at the corner of Grimmer and Warm Springs Blvd, offers six haunted attractions; Pirates of Emerson in 3D, Heartstoppers, Rebel Yell, The Asylum, Densmore Manor and the Bilge Rate Maze. Each haut offers a unique experience and is not intended for the very young.

The Pirates of Emerson are opening for their first season at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk with a festival of fear - the "Scaribbean Cove, Beneath the Boardwalk," and the "Fright Walk" and five rides will be open with the Arcade. It's an all new adventure.

Haunting Fields:

The Haunting Fields are open Thursday through Sunday until October 21. Beginning Wednesday, Oct. 24, the Pirates of Emerson will greet visitors every day through October 31. Hours are 7 to 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 7 to 10 p.m. during the week. Prices are $20 for general admission and $30 for a speed pass to avoid waiting in lines.

Notes:Children 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult; High heels are not recommended; No bare feet; Belongings deemed dangerous will not be allowed past the Main Gate; Credit cards, checks & ATMs are not accepted at the ticket window; No pets;Wheelchair Accessible; No Photography; Caution: Some of our new animatronics are causing certain brands of cell phones to lose memory.

Pirates of the Scaribbean:

Pirates of the Scaribbean are open Friday through Sunday until October 21 plus Thursday, October 18. Beginning Thursday, Oct. 25, Pirates of Emerson will greet visitors every day through October 31. Hours are 7 to midnight Fridays and Saturdays and 7 to 10 p.m. during the week. Not recommended for children under 13 years of age.